Professional orchestral conductors’ use of selected teaching behaviors in rehearsal

Abstract

This descriptive study examined professional conductors’ use of rehearsal time in sequential pattern components, discussing task presentation targets, and using verbal imagery and modeling techniques. Commercially available videos of 15 professional conductors rehearsing prominent orchestras were scripted, coded, and timed for selected teaching behaviors. Results revealed that professional conductors spent a large amount of rehearsal time allowing the ensemble to perform, presenting musical information, and focusing on interpretational aspects of the music (especially dynamics and style). All the conductors used verbal modeling to some extent, and most used verbal imagery at some point in rehearsal. Preservice and practicing music educators/conductors may find these results to be beneficial when reflecting on and refining their own teaching skills.